Fact 14: The Economic Impact of HSE
The economic impact of HSE can’t be understated. Both direct and indirect costs are associated with this condition. Direct costs include hospitalization, diagnostic procedures, medications, and professional fees. Indirect costs encompass missed work, decreased productivity, and long-term disability.
Hospitalization represents a significant proportion of direct costs, with the length of stay varying depending on the severity of the disease and patient’s response to treatment. Complicated cases requiring extended hospital stays or intensive care can quickly ramp up the total cost.
Treatment for HSE, primarily involving intravenous administration of the antiviral medication acyclovir, adds to the expense. Diagnostic procedures, such as lumbar punctures, EEGs, MRIs, and lab tests, also contribute to the financial burden.
Long-term, HSE can lead to physical and cognitive disabilities that might require ongoing rehabilitation. These could include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and mental health services. The need for assistive devices or home health aides may also arise.
Moreover, the indirect costs of HSE can be substantial. They include lost wages for patients and potentially their caregivers, reduced productivity due to cognitive or physical impairments, and, in some cases, the cost of long-term disability.
The economic impact of HSE extends beyond the individual patient, affecting families and society at large. The financial strain can be immense, emphasizing the need for research and public health strategies aimed at prevention and early detection. (14)
